Lizzie Fortunato Jewels at Kabiri

Designed and operated by twin sisters Elizabeth and Kathryn Fortunato, Lizzie Fortunato Jewels features exquisite accessories handcrafted from stones, chains, textiles and re-worked vintage charms scoured from all corners of the globe. The sisters' New York city-based line reflects their penchant for travel and their constant desire to distinguish themselves (and their wardrobes). Drawing from the principle that fine jewellery is not limited to diamonds, Lizzie Fortunato Jewels features industrial, found, and reclaimed materials in exceptionally chic designs.

Influenced by her paternal grandmother's immaculate crewel and needlework and her maternal grandmother's flawless style, Elizabeth spent most of her formative years sewing and beading. However, it was when the sisters entered Duke University together (where Elizabeth studied Art History and Kathryn studied economics) that Lizzie Fortunato Jewels began to blossom. Before long, the girls were known on campus for their stunning jewellery and Kathryn was marketing her sister's distinct handiwork to their chic friends and high-end boutiques alike.

After graduating, Elizabeth and Kathryn relocated to Manhattan's Lower East Side, where the line has attracted the attention of editors and buyers locally and internationally. Lizzie Fortunato Jewels has participated in New York fashion week twice and collaborated with some of the most exciting new names in fashion including Whistle+Flute and Grace Sun Designs. In January of 2008, the line received Daily Candy's "Sweetest Young Thing of 2007" honors for the "Year's Most Innovative, Inspiring, and Promising Designer".

For Fall/Winter 2008, elizabeth once again found herself designing decadent pieces for the fearless woman, this time looking to Picasso's Harlequin Paintings, the notorious European socialite - Marchesa Luisa Casati, and the landscapes of Argentine Estancias for inspiration. This season look for carnival-esque collar necklaces adorned with handsewn bows and chiffon rosettes, antique poker chips from 1920s Punta Del Este, Uruquay, and hand-painted bird finials exquisitely situated at the collarbone. The collection, aptly entitled "Get Yourself Free" is perfectly suited to those dauntless girls who aren't afraid to take a gamble or indulge in lavish dressing, just like the bold Marchesa Luisa Casati herself.